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UAL Online

Frequently Asked Questions

Textile design with multi-colours
Madison Mcglennon, 2019, BA (Hons) Textile Design, Chelsea College of Arts, UAL | Photograph: Alys Tomlinson

Read about online study, teaching, support and more.

Get answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we receive about applying for our online Master’s courses.

Online study

Explore UAL Online’s flexible learning options, from entry points to work commitments.

When can I start?

You can choose to start in January, May or September each year. The courses are delivered part-time, online.

How long will I study for? 

Our online courses offer the flexibility of three award options, so the length of your studies depends on the award you choose.

  • A Master’s (MA) will take a minimum of 2 years, and a maximum 4 years.
  • A Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) will take a minimum of 1 year 4 months, and a maximum 3 years 4 months.
  • A Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert) will take a minimum of 8 months and a maximum 2 years 8 months.

You’ll study part-time, approximately 21 hours per week. Our online learning model allows you to take breaks between units if continuous study isn't suitable for you.

How long does each unit take to study? 

Each unit is delivered over 14 weeks with a short break at the end of each unit.

Can I complete a Master’s while in full-time employment?

Absolutely! Our online, part-time courses are designed for busy people, allowing you to balance your studies with full-time employment or other life commitments.

Teaching and support

Discover the learning offerings at UAL Online and the support you’ll receive along the way.

How is teaching delivered? 

There will be weekly live sessions where you can engage with your tutor. Our course units combine a balance of tutor-led engagement and self-directed study.

You can read more about how you’ll learn.

You will be supported throughout your studies; however, a high level of self-management, discipline and independence will be required throughout the course as should be expected at Master’s level study.

What if I can’t make the live sessions?

If you can’t attend the live sessions, they will be recorded, and you can easily catch-up by accessing the recording on Moodle.

What support do I receive throughout my studies? 

You’ll receive support from the moment you express an interest in an online course, right through to graduation.

If you have any questions before enrolling, we encourage you to reach out to our team of Recruitment Advisors, who are here to assist you and help you with your application. You can do this by completing the form on the course page.

Once you’ve enrolled, you’ll have access to our student success team. They’ll help you with any questions you have related to your course or learning platform. They’re available by email and phone and will get back to you within 24 hours (Monday-Friday GMT).

You’ll have regular interactions with course tutors through live sessions and webinars. They are will also provide feedback on your assignments.

Funding your course

Find all the details on how to fund your UAL Online MA course.

How much are the fees, and when are they due? 

Details of your course fees can be found on the relevant course page. Tuition fees are paid in instalments on a pay-per-unit basis as you progress through your chosen award.

To secure your place on a course, you’ll be asked to pay a deposit, which is equal to and credited towards the first unit.

How do I pay for my course?

Payments can be made online using a credit or debit card, or by bank transfer.

How much is a deposit?

To secure your place on a course, you’ll be asked to pay a deposit, which is equal to and credited towards the first unit.

Read the full UAL Online Fees policy.

Graduating as an online student

On graduating from UAL Online, you’ll join our community of Alumni.

Do I get a certificate of completion?

When you graduate, you’ll receive your postgraduate degree certificate. Your certificate will state the course title and award, and will be awarded by the University of the Arts London.

Will I have a graduation ceremony? 

You will have the option to take part in a graduation ceremony in London if you’d like, where you’ll have the chance to meet your peers and tutors in person. If you can’t attend, we will post your certificate to you.

More to explore

  • A woman sitting on a sofa reading a book
    Babett Kürschner, 2021 BA Public Relations, London College of Communication, UAL | Photograph: Alys Tomlinson

    Courses

    View our online courses

  • Close up photo of hands typing on a laptop
    Babett Kurschner working on a laptop, London College of Communication, UAL | Photograph: Alys Tomlinson

    Application process

    Read our step-by-step guide